Showing posts with label Omakase. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Omakase. Show all posts

Monday, February 3, 2025

Ganko Sushi @ Penang Road (Dhoby Ghaut) - Welcome Chinese New Year with $98 14-Course Omakase

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Ganko Sushi, situated on Penang Road near Dhoby Ghaut, is the brand’s first foray into Southeast Asia. Since its arrival in Singapore a few years back, the restaurant has consistently maintained its hallmark quality by flying in fresh ingredients from Japan up to three times weekly.

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Diners can choose between counter seating to observe the chefs at work or more traditional table seating, ideal for gatherings.

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14-Course Omakase 4/5

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Ganko’s meticulously crafted 14-Course Omakase ($98/pax), available for lunch and dinner.

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Appetiser

The omakase began with an Appetiser of lightly torched Chutoro drizzled in Ponzu Sauce and garnished with radish.

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Sashimi

The Sashimi course presented a selection of Salmon, Golden Eye Snapper, Flounder, and Monkfish Liver in a sweet sauce. While the cuts weren’t the finest we’ve encountered, they were considerably fresh.

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Palette Cleanser

Next was the Chawanmushi with Ikura, a Palette Cleanser. It was lightly seasoned with pops of ikura, mushroom and prawn.

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Fried and Grilled

Fried and Grilled offerings followed, including Grilled Eel, Tempura Lotus, Shiso Pepper, and Tempura Sea Bream. My dining companion and I thought it was a pity that the tempura batter was slightly thick and under-seasoned.

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Chilled Dish

The Chilled Dish served thick-cut aburi Amberjack on dashi soy sauce, paired with tender turnip and sweet red pepper.

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Sushi - Tai

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Sushi - Aji

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Sushi - Otoro

The Sushi course featured Tai, Aji topped with ginger and green onion, and Otoro, with each piece offering well-balanced flavours.

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Mid-way through the Sushi course, we were served with a hot bowl of Miso Soup to accompany.

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Sushi - Bara Gunkan

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Sushi - Hotate

The Sushi lineup continued with a Bara Gunkan, a blend of salmon, sea bream, and prawn topped with ikura, and a lightly torched Hotate dressed in sweet soy sauce and a hint of yuzu kasho for a refreshing hit.

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Seasonal Dessert

Dessert rounded off the meal with a seasonal medley of Apple, Pear, Muscat, Strawberry Jelly, and raspberry sauce, offering a simple and sweet end to the feast.

Reservations are highly encouraged to be made by reaching them at +65 8828 2280.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ganko Sushi
9 Penang Road
#01-01
Singapore 238459
Tel: +65 8828 2280
Facebook
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut MRT (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130a, - 230pm, 6pm to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Penang Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Monday, January 27, 2025

KUN (坤) Omakase @ Amoy Street - An Omakase Style Course Meal Paired with Tongue-tingling Thrill of Sichuan Cuisine

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Conveniently located in Telok Ayer, KUN (坤) offers the elegance and refinement of an omakase-style course meal paired with the tongue-tingling thrill of Sichuan cuisine. The space is intimate yet sophisticated, with sleek, minimalist decor and bar counter seating that offers guests a front-row view of the chefs in action. Hailing from Sichuan, China, the chefs bring their expertise and passion to each dish, showcasing their culinary skills and artistry. I also loved the tasteful choice of crockery; every dish was served on beautifully designed plates and bowls, enhancing each dish's aesthetics.

In addition to their signature seasonal 8-course ($168++) and 10-course ($289++) dinner menus, KUN has recently introduced a new 8-course Seafood and Crab Feast ($168++). The menu highlights the vibrant, fresh flavours of the ocean while taking diners on a journey through the bold, evolving layers of Sichuan spices. As the meal progresses, the intensity of the flavours deepens, a blend of heat and complexity that is just so satisfying for the tastebuds.

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Varieties of Pickled Vegetables 3.5/5

The first dish to arrive is a Varieties of Pickled Vegetables, presented in a long glass vessel. Served in a specific order — from left to right — the selection includes tangy and spicy bamboo shoots, navel orange-infused winter melon, and savoury, spicy cherry radish. Each bite offers some crunch and a mild tanginess that awakens the palate. It is a refreshing prelude to the rest of the dinner menu.

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Seafood Crab Meat Soup 4.5/5

The Seafood Crab Meat Soup is the lightest dish on the menu, designed to allow diners to fully appreciate the natural sweetness of the Canadian clams and flower crab leg. The consommé is delicate and clear, having been steamed for 6 hours to draw out all the flavour of the seafood. There are also succulent pieces of clam and crab meat in the soup.

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Live Scotland Bamboo Clams with Red Oil Garlic 4.5/5

The Live Scotland Bamboo Clams with Red Oil Garlic showcases plump pieces of bamboo clams coated in a fragrant, spicy garlic red oil dressing made fresh daily. This aromatic dressing imparts a mild yet captivating heat. For some contrast in texture, crunchy Dongbei fungus is added, and ikura is also mixed into the sauce.

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Cold Rice Noodles with Homemade Red Oil dressing 4.5/5

I was excited for the dish of Cold Rice Noodles with Homemade Red Oil dressing and was intrigued by how the rice noodles were expertly shaved off a whole piece of noodle dough and neatly folded into a bowl. Thicker than kway teow and made from a blend of rice and pea flour, the noodles are soft and pleasantly smooth. This dish is a summertime staple in Sichuan, with chilled noodles tossed in a fragrant red chilli oil dressing. The default spice level is "zhong la," or medium spicy, but you can request extra spice or a milder version in advance, depending on your preference. The combination of refreshing noodles and the zing of chilli oil makes it a perfect dish for a warm day.

5. Flower crab-3
Stir-Fried Flower Crab with Crispy Golden Beans 4.8/5

The Stir-Fried Flower Crab with Crispy Golden Beans was undoubtedly the showstopper of the evening. Each diner is served their own flower crab, expertly cooked in the classic Sichuan "dry fry" method. It involves flash-frying the ingredients to lock in their flavours before tossing them with aromatic seasonings and spices reminiscent of La Zi Chicken. The result is a perfectly cooked crab that is so fragrant and incredibly tasty. We all eagerly put on our gloves and used our hands and a little fork to crack open the crab and dig into the sweet flesh. Though the crab isn't very meaty — a deliberate choice by the chefs — it encourages diners to fully immerse themselves in the experience, sucking at the crab legs and savouring the spices that coat every bite.

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Red Oil Xiao Long Bao 4.2/5

Following the flower crab is a dish of two steamed Red Oil Xiao Long Baos. These dumplings contain Brazilian pork filling, coated in a sweet and sour red oil dressing, and finished with a sprinkling of homemade chilli powder. The dumplings are quite good, retaining their rich soup and offering a juicy bite, but the skin could be slightly thinner.

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Seafood Rice Bowl 4.2/5

To conclude the savoury courses, we had an umami-packed Seafood Rice Bowl featuring black tiger shrimp, dried scallop, crab meat, and tofu with a rich salted egg sauce. The ingredients were served atop a bed of Japanese pearl rice, which perfectly absorbed the tasty sauce. Mix it all up and enjoy! It's a satisfying, hearty dish that filled us up.

8. Dessert-2
Murasaki Imo Momo 4.2/5

After the richness of the meal, the Murasaki Imo Momo dessert is a lovely and refreshing combination of sweet peach ice cream balls paired with purple sweet potato balls, which contain a blend of honey, condensed milk and coconut. The sweet potato itself is not too sweet, and hidden inside is a piece of seasonal fruit such as melon.

Overall, it's a thoughtfully presented course menu that indulges diners in the tasty flavours of premium seafood infused with Sichuan-style elements for a perfect balance of heat and aromatic complexity. The chefs demonstrate impressive skill, carefully managing the spices so as not to overpower the delicate seafood. Instead, they enhance its natural sweetness and depth, allowing diners to fully appreciate the taste of each ingredient. The layers of spice provide a memorable kick without overwhelming the palate.

For those craving even more crab, seasonal hairy crab is available as an add-on for just $18! Additionally, KUN offers personalised menus upon request, with three days' advance notice, allowing diners to customise their dining experience to suit their preferences.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


KUN Omakase
72 Amoy Street
Singapore 069893
Tel: +65 8785 6997
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Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 12pm - 2pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:

1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Monday, January 13, 2025

SAKEMARU Artisan Sake Hideout @ Clarke Quay - Modern Japanese Kappo-style Izakaya with Extensive Range of Exclusive Artisanal Saké

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SAKEMARU Artisan Sake Hideout is an izakaya tucked along South Bridge Road, between Clarke Quay and Raffles Place MRT stations. Specialising in modern Kappo-style Japanese cuisine, the restaurant exudes a cosy ambience with options for counter seating or regular tables.

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True to its name, SAKEMARU boasts an extensive selection of artisanal sakes, many of which are rare finds not typically available in other local establishments.

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Chef Kudo’s Omakase 4/5

The highlight of the menu is the signature Chef Kudo’s Omakase ($150/pax), while a la carte options are also available.

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Saikzuke

The omakase begins with Saikzuke, a curated appetiser platter. This includes monkfish liver delicately paired with ponzu sauce, a saucer of flavourful boiled spinach, sweet Annou potato tempura, dried horse mackerel, and a fresh cuttlefish sushi piece.

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Wanmono

The Wanmono soup course features a light yet hearty turnip soup, enhanced with cod milt and garnished with green onions.

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Sashimi

No omakase is complete without Sashimi, and we were treated to thick, fresh slices of tuna, sea bream, and mackerel.

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Yakimono

For our Yakimono course, we were served with buttery grilled scallops, brussel sprouts, and a tender slice of fish topped with sea urchin.

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Agemono

Next was the Agemono course, which consisted of three tempuras: smelt, lotus root, and tilefish. While the ingredients were fresh, we found the batter slightly bland.

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Sunomono

The Sunomono course showcased snow crab, grouper, and radish pickled in sweet vinegar, further dressed in Tosazu vinegar. While refreshing, it was a little too sweet for our liking.

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Gohan

The main course was Gohan, featuring grilled yellowtail served with saikyo miso claypot rice, paired with a cup of miso soup. The rice is lightly savoury, complementing the grilled fish. I particularly liked the clear miso soup that had depth.

If you are not able to finish your portion of rice, the staff can shape it into small onigiri for takeaway, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

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Kanmi

The meal concluded with the Kanmi course. While I wished there was slightly more azuki filling, this traditional Japanese sweet treat of strawberry daifuku came with a juicy, sweet strawberry encased in soft mochi skin.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


SAKEMARU Artisan Sake Hideout
55 South Bridge Road
Singapore 058686
Tel: +65 65132789
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat:1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road and walk to Carpenter Street. Walk down Carpenter Street to South Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Chulia Street to North Canal Road. Walk to the junction of North Canal Road and South Bridge Road. Turn right onto South Bridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, January 12, 2025

Yakiniku Gyubei @ 100AM Mall - Japan's Zero-waste, Head-to-Tail Wagyu Restaurant Debuts In Singapore

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Royal Shoji introduces two new exciting Japanese dining concepts situated side by side at 100AM mall. The first concept, Yakiniku Gyubei, marks the brand's highly anticipated debut outside Japan. With a rich heritage spanning over 25 years and 22 outlets across Japan, Yakiniku Gyubei has built a reputation for its innovative approach to yakiniku dining.

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The restaurant is renowned for its zero-waste, head-to-tail philosophy, which ensures every part of the ethically sourced Wagyu beef from the Kyushu region is utilised to create an exceptional dining experience. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of 24 premium cuts, each carefully chosen for its quality and tenderness.

Bibimbap-1

Yakiniku Gyubei offers an extensive and enticing lunch menu designed to suit a variety of budgets. For those seeking a quick and casual meal, options like Hot Stone Bibimbap are available starting at just $12.90. Meanwhile, their cook-your-own-lunch sets are available starting at an affordable $13.90, with choices including US Beef Ribs, Hokkaido Pork, and Chicken Thigh. Each set is served with a salad, a side dish, rice, and soup, for a satisfying meal. enjoy a wide selection of 24 premium cuts, each carefully chosen for its quality and tenderness.

Signature gyubei platter 3 cuts-2

Salad and soup and rice

For those who prefer a more indulgent experience, the Signature Gyubei lunch ($33.90++) features three premium cuts of Wagyu beef, each seared to perfection on your personal grill. It's paired with the same assortment of fresh salad, side dish, rice, and soup. It's really delicious!

Omakase wagyu 6 cuts platter-2

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For an elevated dining experience, opt for the Omakase lunch for two (100++ for 2 pax). It sets itself apart by showcasing six premium cuts sourced from a single cow and highlighting wagyu's rich marbling and exceptional tenderness. Each cut delivers a melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture and a rich depth of flavour.

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This omakase lunch also includes salad, a side dish and two meals from a choice of:

· Bibimbap + Soup
· Beef Rib Soup + Rice
· Hot & Spicy Beef Soup + Rice
· Egg Drop Soup + Rice
· Cold Noodle

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The dinner menu includes à la carte options like wagyu sushi, sashimi, noodles as well as Yakiniku Assortment Grill Sets available in 4 Kinds ($48), 6 Kinds ($98), and 8 Kinds ($148). To celebrate its grand opening in Singapore, Yakiniku Gyubei is offering $30 off its Yakiniku Assortment Grill Sets (6 Kinds) ($68, U.P. $98) from 10–26 January 2025. This exclusive promotion is available for walk-ins only.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. She shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences through her pictures and stories. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yakiniku Gyubei
100AM Mall
100 Tras Street
#03-10
Singapore 079027
Tel: +65 69700276
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk towards Gopeng Street and turn into Tras Street. Walk to Amara Hotel. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, December 26, 2024

Mizuki @ Ngee Ann City - Tempura Omakase with Quality Seasonal Ingredients in Orchard Road

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Mizuki, located in Ngee Ann City since 2017, offers a refined dining experience that specialises in tempura. Guests can choose from a variety of omakase menus, including Tempura Omakase, Wagyu Omakase, and Signature Omakase, alongside set meals and à la carte options.

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With its serene, minimalist interiors, the restaurant offers diners the opportunity to enjoy their meals at the 9-seater tempura counter or in private rooms, making it a perfect setting for an intimate experience.

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Tempura Dinner Omakase 4.5/5

On our visit, we had the Tempura Dinner Omakase ($198/pax). Before the meal commenced, the chefs showcased the seasonal ingredients of the day, beautifully presented with autumn leaves, giving us a glimpse of what was to come.

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Sashimi

The omakase began with Sashimi, featuring meticulously sliced fish of freshness, especially the Kampachi.

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Chawanmushi

This was followed by a comforting shiitake and edamame Chawanmushi, topped with snow crab and shark fin.

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Seasonal Tempura 9 Kinds

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Seasonal Tempura 9 Kinds. We observed the chefs carefully prepare each piece, delicately laying each ingredient and coating it in a traditional batter before placing it in the fryer.

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Diners are provided with an assortment of condiments, including salt, tentsuyu sauce, lemon, and freshly grated radish, to customise their tempura experience.

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Japanese Tiger Prawn

The Japanese Tiger Prawn served with its head featured a light and crisp batter that complemented the prawn's natural sweetness rather than overwhelming.

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Tara No Me

Tara No Me is a mountain vegetable with a slightly bitter taste. We enjoyed the bitter notes on their own, but they are also good paired with the Tentsuyu for an extra touch of savoury.

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Uni on Shiso

One of the most luxurious bites was the Uni on Shiso, a harmonious combination of creamy bafun uni, baby whitefish, and caviar atop a tempura-fried shiso leaf and seaweed. It was indulgent without being excessive and left a lasting impression.

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Ginkgo

Next was a classic Gingko.

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Fish with Cucumber

The Fish with Cucumber was an unexpected combination. The fish meat was delicate and soft, and the cucumber gave a lightness.

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Hotate

Another standout was the Hotate, served in two parts. The first was fried to retain a pink, tender centre, accompanied by a refreshing zest of grated yuzu.

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Hotate

The second was wrapped in nori and topped with ikura, creating a delightful contrast of flavours and textures.

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Mushroom

Additional prawn paste was added to the Mushroom before frying.

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Ika

Next was the uniquely prepared Ika, drizzled with a reduced sauce made of squid head. While the exterior was crisp, the Ika in the middle was intentionally kept raw.

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Anago

The Anago was one of my favourite courses, along with the Uni and Hotate. The mild, sweet meat was absolutely tender, enhanced by a squeeze of lemon.

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Dried Persimmon

One of the more creative dishes was the Dried Persimmon with Mochi, where a tempura-fried persimmon slice was sandwiched between crispy mochi and wrapped in nori. The combination of sweet, chewy, and salty elements made it memorable.

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Kakiage Don & Miso Soup

The meal concluded with the Kakiage Don & Miso Soup, a bowl of fried tiger prawns and sakura shrimp served over rice. I recommend breaking the egg yolk and mixing it in.

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Assorted Dessert

Assorted Dessert followed, featuring a trio of homemade creations: Strawberry Ice Cream, Warabimochi, and Pudding. The desserts were decent, with the milky pudding standing out more for its creamy texture.

Overall, the tempura at Mizuki was outstanding, and I particularly appreciated the chefs' condiment recommendations for each piece served. Additionally, the pacing of the meal was attentive and comfortable.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mizuki
Ngee Ann City
#05-32
391 Orchard Road
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 8828 2260
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 3. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]